WAM! Contest Empowers India’s Creative Voices
Resham Talwar, a visually impaired artist, has emerged as a beacon of inspiration after winning the Voice Acting category at the WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!) in Delhi. Her victory underscores the transformative power of creativity, proving that talent knows no boundaries. The WAM! initiative, organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the Media & Entertainment Association of India (MEAI), aims to elevate India’s anime and manga scene by providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their skills.
WAM! Initiative: A Platform for Emerging Talent
The WAVES Anime & Manga Contest (WAM!) is more than just a competition; it represents a significant movement within the creative industry. Launched by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and MEAI, WAM! seeks to tap into India’s growing enthusiasm for anime and manga. The initiative encourages artists to create localized adaptations of popular Japanese styles, catering to both Indian and global audiences. Participants will have opportunities for publishing, distribution, and industry exposure, fostering artistic expression and nurturing new talent.
The competition will feature state-level contests across 11 cities, culminating in a grand national finale at the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai. This ambitious event aims to position India as a global leader in media and entertainment, drawing inspiration from renowned gatherings like Davos and Cannes. By uniting various sectors such as films, OTT platforms, gaming, and digital media, WAVES is set to propel India to the forefront of global storytelling.
Create in India Challenges: Unleashing Creativity
At the heart of WAVES lies the Create in India Challenges (CIC), a series of competitions designed to discover and nurture talent across diverse creative fields. The first season of CIC has already attracted over 77,000 entries from more than 35 countries, showcasing the immense interest in creative expression. From this vast pool, over 725 top creators will converge at the grand finale during WAVES 2025, where they will present their work and compete for global recognition.
The challenges celebrate India’s rich tapestry of regional storytelling, reflecting the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity. WAM!, as a standout initiative under CIC, focuses specifically on the anime and manga domains, providing a platform for both amateurs and professionals to shine. This movement not only uncovers hidden talent but also bridges the gap between aspiring creators and industry opportunities, transforming dreams into viable careers.
The Rising Popularity of Anime and Manga in India
In recent years, anime and manga have gained immense popularity in India, with around 180 million anime fans making the country the second-largest anime market globally, trailing only China. This surge in interest is expected to drive 60% of global growth in the anime sector. Iconic shows like “Naruto,” “Dragon Ball,” and “Attack on Titan” have captivated audiences, highlighting the demand for diverse storytelling.
The anime market in India was valued at $1,642.5 million in 2023 and is projected to reach $5,036.0 million by 2032. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar have made anime easily accessible to Indian viewers, further fueling its popularity. Despite this growth, the industry faces a critical shortage of skilled talent, a gap that WAM! aims to address by fostering homegrown creators.
Success Stories and Industry Support
Resham Talwar’s victory is just one of many inspiring stories emerging from WAM!. Young talents like Angel Yadav, a high school student from Varanasi, have also made significant strides, impressing industry leaders and securing job offers. Similarly, professional manga artist Randeep Singh has gained recognition for his work, receiving paid projects from established studios.
The support for WAM! extends beyond individual achievements, attracting prominent figures from the industry. Srikkanth Konatham, Director of BOB Pictures, has committed to attending future WAM! events to scout new talent. Other industry leaders are offering distribution deals and internship opportunities to winners, ensuring that participants have the resources they need to thrive in a competitive market.
WAM! stands out for its ability to democratize creativity, allowing diverse voices to be heard and celebrated. As part of WAVES 2025, WAM! is not just a contest; it is a revolutionary platform reshaping how India’s creative talents are discovered and nurtured. With the summit approaching, the world will witness India’s storytellers, rooted in a rich legacy of folklore and embracing modern mediums, take center stage.
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